U.S. patent number 10,293,639 [Application Number 15/583,927] was granted by the patent office on 2019-05-21 for bicycle hub assembly.
This patent grant is currently assigned to SHIMANO INC.. The grantee listed for this patent is SHIMANO INC.. Invention is credited to Hiroshi Fujita, Kazuki Koshiyama, Naohiro Nishimoto.
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United States Patent |
10,293,639 |
Fujita , et al. |
May 21, 2019 |
Bicycle hub assembly
Abstract
A bicycle hub assembly comprises a hub axle, a hub shell, a
sprocket support body, a first ratchet member, a second ratchet
member, and a sliding member. The hub shell includes at least one
first tooth. The sprocket support body includes a first helical
spline. The first ratchet member comprises at least one first
ratchet tooth and a second helical spline engaged with the first
helical spline. The second ratchet member comprises at least one
second ratchet tooth and at least one second tooth. The at least
one second ratchet tooth is engageable with the at least one first
ratchet tooth. The at least one second tooth is engaged with the at
least one first tooth. The sliding member is provided between the
sprocket support body and the second ratchet member in an axial
direction parallel to a rotational axis. The sliding member
includes a non-metallic material.
Inventors: |
Fujita; Hiroshi (Sakai,
JP), Nishimoto; Naohiro (Sakai, JP),
Koshiyama; Kazuki (Sakai, JP) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SHIMANO INC. |
Sakai |
N/A |
JP |
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Assignee: |
SHIMANO INC. (Sakai,
JP)
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Family
ID: |
58355721 |
Appl.
No.: |
15/583,927 |
Filed: |
May 1, 2017 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20170232791 A1 |
Aug 17, 2017 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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14873141 |
Oct 1, 2015 |
9707801 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F16D
1/10 (20130101); B60B 27/023 (20130101); B60B
27/047 (20130101); F16D 1/06 (20130101); F16D
41/36 (20130101); B60B 27/0026 (20130101); B60B
27/0031 (20130101); B62M 9/121 (20130101); B60B
2900/133 (20130101); B60B 2360/32 (20130101); B60B
2900/325 (20130101); F16D 2001/103 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
B60B
27/04 (20060101); F16D 41/36 (20060101); F16D
1/06 (20060101); F16D 1/10 (20060101); B62M
9/121 (20100101); B60B 27/00 (20060101); B60B
27/02 (20060101) |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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202014001591 |
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Mar 2014 |
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DE |
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102016101498 |
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Aug 2016 |
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DE |
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Other References
Office Action with Form PTO-892 Notice of References Cited issued
by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for the U.S. Appl. No.
14/873,141, dated Dec. 22, 2016. cited by applicant.
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Primary Examiner: Manley; Mark A
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Mori & Ward, LLP
Parent Case Text
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
The present application is a divisional application of the U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 14/873,141 filed Oct. 1, 2015. The
contents of this application are incorporated herein by reference
in their entirety.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A bicycle hub assembly comprising: a hub axle defining a
rotational axis; a hub shell rotatably mounted on the hub axle to
rotate about the rotational axis, the hub shell including at least
one first tooth; a sprocket support body rotatably mounted on the
hub axle to rotate about the rotational axis, the sprocket support
body including a first helical spline; a first ratchet member
comprising: at least one first ratchet tooth; and a second helical
spline engaged with the first helical spline; a second ratchet
member comprising: at least one second ratchet tooth engageable
with the at least one first ratchet tooth; and at least one second
tooth engaged with the at least one first tooth; and a sliding
member provided between the sprocket support body and the second
ratchet member in an axial direction parallel to the rotational
axis, the sliding member including a non-metallic material.
2. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 1, wherein the
sprocket support body includes a first axial surface facing in the
axial direction, the second ratchet member includes a second axial
surface facing in the axial direction, and the sliding member is
provided between the first axial surface and the second axial
surface in the axial direction.
3. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 1, wherein the
sliding member has an annular shape.
4. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 1, wherein the
second ratchet member is provided between the first ratchet member
and the sliding member in the axial direction.
5. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 1, wherein the
non-metallic material includes a resin material.
6. A bicycle hub assembly comprising: a hub axle defining a
rotational axis; a hub shell rotatably mounted on the hub axle to
rotate about the rotational axis, the hub shell including at least
one first tooth; a sprocket support body rotatably mounted on the
hub axle to rotate about the rotational axis, the sprocket support
body including a first helical spline; a first ratchet member
comprising: at least one first ratchet tooth; and a second helical
spline engaged with the first helical spline; a second ratchet
member comprising: at least one second ratchet tooth engageable
with the at least one first ratchet tooth; and at least one second
tooth engaged with the at least one first tooth; a biasing member
provided between the hub shell and the first ratchet member in an
axial direction parallel to the rotational axis to bias the first
ratchet member toward the second ratchet member; and an additional
biasing member provided between the hub shell and the second
ratchet member in the axial direction to bias the second ratchet
member toward the sprocket support body.
7. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 6, wherein the
additional biasing member is provided radially outwardly of the
biasing member.
8. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 6, wherein the
additional biasing member is provided radially outwardly of the at
least one second ratchet tooth.
9. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 6, wherein the
second ratchet member includes a cylindrical element extending in
the axial direction, the at least one second tooth extends radially
outwardly from the cylindrical element, and the additional biasing
member is provided between the hub shell and the cylindrical
element in the axial direction.
10. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 6, further
comprising: a supporting member provided between the second ratchet
member and the additional biasing member in the axial
direction.
11. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 10, wherein the
supporting member includes an annular base provided between the
second ratchet member and the additional biasing member in the
axial direction, and a radially supporting portion extending from
the annular base in the axial direction, and the additional biasing
member is provided radially outwardly of the radially supporting
portion.
12. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 10, wherein the
supporting member includes a non-metallic material.
13. A bicycle hub assembly comprising: a hub axle defining a
rotational axis; a hub shell rotatably mounted on the hub axle to
rotate about the rotational axis, the hub shell including at least
one first tooth; a sprocket support body rotatably mounted on the
hub axle to rotate about the rotational axis, the sprocket support
body including a first helical spline; a first ratchet member
comprising: at least one first ratchet tooth; and a second helical
spline engaged with the first helical spline; a second ratchet
member comprising: at least one second ratchet tooth engageable
with the at least one first ratchet tooth; and at least one second
tooth engaged with the at least one first tooth; a biasing member
provided between the hub shell and the first ratchet member in an
axial direction parallel to the rotational axis to bias the first
ratchet member toward the second ratchet member; and a receiving
member provided between the first ratchet member and the biasing
member in the axial direction.
14. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 13, wherein the
first ratchet member includes a first receiving surface facing in
the axial direction, and the receiving member is provided between
the first receiving surface and the biasing member in the axial
direction.
15. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 13, wherein the
first ratchet member includes a cylindrical part extending from the
first receiving surface in the axial direction, and the receiving
member is provided radially outwardly of the cylindrical part.
16. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 15, wherein the
receiving member includes an axially receiving part provided
between the first receiving surface and the biasing member in the
axial direction, and a radially receiving part extending from the
axially receiving part in the axial direction, the radially
receiving part being provided between the cylindrical part and the
biasing member in a radial direction perpendicular to the
rotational axis.
17. The bicycle hub assembly according to claim 13, wherein the
receiving member includes a non-metallic material.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to a bicycle hub assembly.
Discussion of the Background
Bicycling is becoming an increasingly more popular form of
recreation as well as a means of transportation. Moreover,
bicycling has become a very popular competitive sport for both
amateurs and professionals. Whether the bicycle is used for
recreation, transportation or competition, the bicycle industry is
constantly improving the various components of the bicycle. One
bicycle component that has been extensively redesigned is a bicycle
hub assembly.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with a first aspect of the present invention, a
bicycle hub assembly comprises a hub axle, a hub shell, a sprocket
support body, a first ratchet member, a second ratchet member, and
a sliding member. The hub axle defines a rotational axis. The hub
shell is rotatably mounted on the hub axle to rotate about the
rotational axis. The hub shell includes at least one first tooth.
The sprocket support body is rotatably mounted on the hub axle to
rotate about the rotational axis. The sprocket support body
includes a first helical spline. The first ratchet member comprises
at least one first ratchet tooth and a second helical spline
engaged with the first helical spline. The second ratchet member
comprises at least one second ratchet tooth and at least one second
tooth. The at least one second ratchet tooth is engageable with the
at least one first ratchet tooth. The at least one second tooth is
engaged with the at least one first tooth. The sliding member is
provided between the sprocket support body and the second ratchet
member in an axial direction parallel to the rotational axis. The
sliding member includes a non-metallic material.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the first aspect, it is
possible to reduce or prevent friction sound caused by direct
contact between the sprocket support body and the second ratchet
member.
In accordance with a second aspect of the present invention, the
bicycle hub assembly according to the first aspect is configured so
that the sprocket support body includes a first axial surface
facing in the axial direction. The second ratchet member includes a
second axial surface facing in the axial direction. The sliding
member is provided between the first axial surface and the second
axial surface in the axial direction.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the second aspect, it is
possible to reduce or prevent friction sound caused by direct
contact between the first axial surface and the second axial
surface.
In accordance with a third aspect of the present invention, the
bicycle hub assembly according to the first or second aspect is
configured so that the sliding member has an annular shape.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the third aspect, it is
possible to effectively reduce or prevent friction sound caused by
direct contact between the sprocket support body and the second
ratchet member with securing strength of the sliding member.
In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present invention, the
bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the first or third
aspects is configured so that the second ratchet member is provided
between the first ratchet member and the sliding member in the
axial direction.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the fourth aspect, the
sliding member can receive an axial force applied from the first
ratchet member to the second ratchet member in the axial
direction.
In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present invention, the
bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the first to fourth
aspects is configured so that the non-metallic material includes a
resin material.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the fifth aspect, it is
possible to reduce or prevent friction sound caused by direct
contact between the sprocket support body and the second ratchet
member with suppressing an increase in weight of the bicycle hub
assembly.
In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present invention, a
bicycle hub assembly comprises a hub axle, a hub shell, a sprocket
support body, a first ratchet member, a second ratchet member, a
biasing member, and an additional biasing member. The hub axle
defines a rotational axis. The hub shell is rotatably mounted on
the hub axle to rotate about the rotational axis. The hub shell
includes at least one first tooth. The sprocket support body is
rotatably mounted on the hub axle to rotate about the rotational
axis. The sprocket support body includes a first helical spline.
The first ratchet member comprises at least one first ratchet tooth
and a second helical spline engaged with the first helical spline.
The second ratchet member comprises at least one second ratchet
tooth and at least one second tooth. The at least one second
ratchet tooth is engageable with the at least one first ratchet
tooth. The at least one second tooth is engaged with the at least
one first tooth. The biasing member is provided between the hub
shell and the first ratchet member in an axial direction parallel
to the rotational axis to bias the first ratchet member toward the
second ratchet member. The additional biasing member is provided
between the hub shell and the second ratchet member in the axial
direction to bias the second ratchet member toward the sprocket
support body.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the sixth aspect, it is
possible to stabilize an orientation of the second ratchet member
relative to the hub shell by the additional biasing member. This
can reduce or prevent friction sound caused by direct contact
between the hub shell and the second ratchet member.
In accordance with a seventh aspect of the present invention, the
bicycle hub assembly according to the sixth aspect is configured so
that the additional biasing member is provided radially outwardly
of the biasing member.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the seventh aspect, it
is possible to effectively stabilize the orientation of the second
ratchet member relative to the hub shell by the additional biasing
member.
In accordance with an eighth aspect of the present invention, the
bicycle hub assembly according to the sixth or seventh aspect is
configured so that the additional biasing member is provided
radially outwardly of the at least one second ratchet tooth.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the eighth aspect, it is
possible to utilize a space provided radially outwardly of the at
least one sound ratchet tooth as a space in which the additional
biasing member.
In accordance with a ninth aspect of the present invention, the
bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the sixth to eighth
aspects is configured so that the second ratchet member includes a
cylindrical element extending in the axial direction. The at least
one second tooth extends radially outwardly from the cylindrical
element. The additional biasing member is provided between the hub
shell and the cylindrical element in the axial direction.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the ninth aspect, it is
possible to effectively stabilize the orientation of the second
ratchet member relative to the hub shell by the additional biasing
member.
In accordance with a tenth aspect of the present invention, the
bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the sixth to ninth
aspects further comprises a supporting member provided between the
second ratchet member and the additional biasing member in the
axial direction.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the tenth aspect, it is
possible to stabilize an orientation of the additional biasing
member relative to the hub shell by the supporting member.
In accordance with an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the
bicycle hub assembly according to the tenth aspect is configured so
that the supporting member includes an annular base and a radially
supporting portion. The annular base is provided between the second
ratchet member and the additional biasing member in the axial
direction. The radially supporting portion extends from the annular
base in the axial direction. The additional biasing member is
provided radially outwardly of the radially supporting portion.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the eleventh aspect, it
is possible to further stabilize an orientation of the additional
biasing member relative to the hub shell by the supporting
member.
In accordance with a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the
bicycle hub assembly according to the tenth or eleventh aspect is
configured so that the supporting member includes a non-metallic
material.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the twelfth aspect, it
is possible to effectively stabilize the orientation of the
additional biasing member relative to the hub shell by the
supporting member with suppressing an increase in weight of the
bicycle hub assembly.
In accordance with a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, a
bicycle hub assembly comprises a hub axle, a hub shell, a sprocket
support body, a first ratchet member, a second ratchet member, a
biasing member, and a receiving member. The hub axle defines a
rotational axis. The hub shell is rotatably mounted on the hub axle
to rotate about the rotational axis. The hub shell includes at
least one first tooth. The sprocket support body is rotatably
mounted on the hub axle to rotate about the rotational axis. The
sprocket support body includes a first helical spline. The first
ratchet member comprises at least one first ratchet tooth and a
second helical spline engaged with the first helical spline. The
second ratchet member comprises at least one second ratchet tooth
and at least one second tooth. The at least one second ratchet
tooth is engageable with the at least one first ratchet tooth. The
at least one second tooth is engaged with the at least one first
tooth. The biasing member is provided between the hub shell and the
first ratchet member in an axial direction parallel to the
rotational axis to bias the first ratchet member toward the second
ratchet member. The receiving member is provided between the first
ratchet member and the biasing member in the axial direction.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirteenth aspect,
it is possible to stabilize an orientation of the biasing member
relative to the hub shell by the receiving member. This can
stabilize a motion of the first ratchet member, preventing uneven
wear of at least one of the first ratchet member and the second
ratchet member.
In accordance with a fourteenth aspect of the present invention,
the bicycle hub assembly according to the thirteenth aspect is
configured so that the first ratchet member includes a first
receiving surface facing in the axial direction. The receiving
member is provided between the first receiving surface and the
biasing member in the axial direction.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the fourteenth aspect,
it is possible to stabilize an orientation of the receiving member
relative to the first ratchet member. This can stabilize the
orientation of the biasing member relative to the hub shell.
Accordingly, it is possible to effectively prevent uneven wear of
at least one of the first ratchet member and the second ratchet
member.
In accordance with a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the
bicycle hub assembly according to the thirteenth or fourteenth
aspect is configured so that the first ratchet member includes a
cylindrical part extending from the first receiving surface in the
axial direction. The receiving member is provided radially
outwardly of the cylindrical part.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the fifteenth aspect, it
is possible to further stabilize the orientation of the receiving
member relative to the first ratchet member. This can further
stabilize the orientation of the biasing member relative to the hub
shell. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively prevent uneven
wear of at least one of the first ratchet member and the second
ratchet member.
In accordance with a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the
bicycle hub assembly according to the fifteenth aspect is
configured so that the receiving member includes an axially
receiving part and a radially receiving part. The axially receiving
part is provided between the first receiving surface and the
biasing member in the axial direction. The radially receiving part
extends from the axially receiving part in the axial direction. The
radially receiving part is provided between the cylindrical part
and the biasing member in a radial direction perpendicular to the
rotational axis.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the sixteenth aspect, it
is possible to further stabilize the orientation of the biasing
member relative to the hub shell. Accordingly, it is possible to
more effectively prevent uneven wear of at least one of the first
ratchet member and the second ratchet member.
In accordance with a seventeenth aspect of the present invention,
the bicycle hub assembly according to any one of the thirteenth to
sixteenth aspects is configured so that the receiving member
includes a non-metallic material.
With the bicycle hub assembly according to the seventeenth aspect,
it is possible to reduce or prevent wear of at least one of the
biasing member and the first ratchet member with suppressing an
increase in weight of the bicycle hub assembly.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of the
attendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same
becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed
description when considered in connection with the accompanying
drawings.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a bicycle hub assembly in
accordance with a first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle hub assembly taken
along line II-II of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the bicycle hub
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the bicycle hub
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the bicycle hub
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a part of the bicycle hub
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 7 is a partial cross-sectional view of the bicycle hub
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of the bicycle hub assembly taken
along line VIII-VIII of FIG. 2.
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a spacer of the bicycle hub
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a spacer of the bicycle hub
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 11 is a partial cross-sectional view of the bicycle hub
assembly taken along line VIII-VIII of FIG. 2.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a supporting member of the bicycle
hub assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a supporting member of the bicycle
hub assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a sliding member of the bicycle
hub assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a receiving member of the bicycle
hub assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the receiving member of the
bicycle hub assembly illustrated in FIG. 1.
FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing an action of a first ratchet
member and a sprocket support body of the bicycle hub assembly
illustrated in FIG. 1 (pedaling).
FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram showing an action of the first
ratchet member and the sprocket support body of the bicycle hub
assembly illustrated in FIG. 1 (coasting).
DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS
The embodiments will now be described with reference to the
accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals designate
corresponding or identical elements throughout the various
drawings.
Referring initially to FIG. 1, a bicycle hub assembly 10 in
accordance with an embodiment is illustrated. While the bicycle hub
assembly 10 is a rear hub assembly in this embodiment, structures
of the bicycle hub assembly 10 can be applied to a front hub
assembly if needed and/or desired.
In the present application, the following directional terms
"front", "rear", "forward", "rearward", "left", "right",
"transverse", "upward" and "downward" as well as any other similar
directional terms refer to those directions which are determined on
the basis of a user (e.g., a rider) who sits on a saddle (not
shown) of a bicycle (not shown) with facing a handlebar.
Accordingly, these terms, as utilized to describe the bicycle hub
assembly 10, should be interpreted relative to the bicycle equipped
with the bicycle hub assembly 10 as used in an upright riding
position on a horizontal surface.
As seen in FIG. 1, the bicycle hub assembly 10 comprises a hub axle
12, a hub shell 14, and a sprocket support body 16. The hub axle 12
defines a rotational axis A1. For example, the hub axle 12 is
secured to a bicycle frame (not shown) via a wheel securing
assembly (not shown). The hub shell 14 is rotatably mounted on the
hub axle 12 to rotate about the rotational axis A1. A rim (not
shown) is coupled to the hub shell 14 via spokes (not shown). The
sprocket support body 16 is rotatably mounted on the hub axle 12 to
rotate about the rotational axis A1. The sprocket support body 16
is rotatable relative to the hub shell 14 about the rotational axis
A1.
As seen in FIG. 2, the sprocket support body 16 is mounted to the
hub axle 12 support a sprocket assembly 2 including sprockets S1 to
S11. The sprocket support body 16 is mounted to the hub axle 12 to
receive a rotational force from the sprocket assembly 2 during
pedaling. The bicycle hub assembly 10 comprises a first bearing 18
and a second bearing 20. The first bearing 18 and the second
bearing 20 are provided between the hub axle 12 and the hub shell
14 to rotatably support the hub shell 14 relative to the hub axle
12 about the rotational axis A1.
The bicycle hub assembly 10 comprises a third bearing 22 and a
fourth bearing 24. The third bearing 22 and the fourth bearing 24
are provided between the hub axle 12 and the sprocket support body
16 to rotatably support the sprocket support body 16 relative to
the hub axle 12 about the rotational axis A1. The third bearing 22
and the fourth bearing 24 are provided between the hub axle 12 and
the sprocket support body 16 to rotatably support the sprocket
support body 16 relative to the hub axle 12 about the rotational
axis A1.
As seen in FIG. 3, the bicycle hub assembly 10 comprises a first
ratchet member 26 and a second ratchet member 28. The first ratchet
member 26 is mounted to the sprocket support body 16 to rotate
together with the sprocket support body 16 relative to the hub
shell 14 about the rotational axis A1. The first ratchet member 26
is movable relative to the sprocket support body 16 in an axial
direction D1 parallel to the rotational axis A1. In this
embodiment, the axial direction D1 includes a first axial direction
D11 and a second axial direction D12 opposite to the first axial
direction D11. The second ratchet member 28 is mounted to the hub
shell 14 to rotate together with the hub shell 14 relative to the
sprocket support body 16 about the rotational axis A1. The second
ratchet member 28 is movable relative to the hub shell 14 in the
axial direction D1. The sprocket support body 16, the first ratchet
member 26, and the second ratchet member 28 provide a bicycle
freewheel 30.
The bicycle freewheel 30 prevents the sprocket support body 16 from
rotating relative to the hub shell 14 in a driving rotational
direction D21 so that a pedaling force is transmitted from the
sprocket support body 16 to the hub shell 14 during pedaling. The
bicycle freewheel 30 allows the hub shell 14 to rotate relative to
the sprocket support body 16 in the driving rotational direction
D21 so that a rotational force is not transmitted from the hub
shell 14 to the sprocket support body 16 during coasting (also
called freewheeling). The driving rotational direction D21 is a
direction in which the sprocket support body 16 rotates relative to
a bicycle frame (not shown) during pedaling. A circumferential
direction D3 of the bicycle hub assembly 10 includes the driving
rotational direction D21 and an opposite rotational direction D22
opposite to the driving rotational direction D21. Coasting or
freewheeling occurs when the sprocket support body 16 stops
rotating relative to the bicycle frame (not shown) in an opposite
rotational direction D22 while the hub shell 14 rotates relative to
the bicycle frame (not shown) in the driving rotational direction
D21.
As seen in FIG. 3, the hub shell 14 includes a freewheel housing 32
having an annular shape. As seen in FIG. 2, the freewheel housing
32 extends in the axial direction D1. The first ratchet member 26
and the second ratchet member 28 are provided in the freewheel
housing 32.
As seen in FIG. 4, the hub shell 14 includes an inner peripheral
surface 33 and at least one first tooth 34. The at least one first
tooth 34 is provided on the inner peripheral surface 33. In this
embodiment, the freewheel housing 32 includes the inner peripheral
surface 33. The hub shell 14 includes a plurality of first teeth
34. The first teeth 34 are provided on the inner peripheral surface
33 and extend radially inwardly from the inner peripheral surface
33. The first teeth 34 are arranged in a circumferential direction
D3 to define recesses 35 between adjacent two teeth of the first
teeth 34. The circumferential direction D3 is defined about the
rotational axis A1 and includes the driving rotational direction
D21 and the opposite rotational direction D22.
The second ratchet member 28 comprises at least one second tooth
36. The at least one second tooth 36 is engaged with the at least
one first tooth 34. In this embodiment, the second ratchet member
28 comprises a plurality of second teeth 36. The second teeth 36
are engaged with the first teeth 34. The second teeth 36 are
arranged in the circumferential direction D3. The second teeth 36
are respectively provided in the recesses 35.
As seen in FIGS. 5 and 6, the sprocket support body 16 includes a
first helical spline 38. The first helical spline 38 includes first
spline teeth 40 and first spline grooves 42 defined between
adjacent two teeth of the first spline teeth 40. The first ratchet
member 26 comprises at least one first ratchet tooth 44 and a
second helical spline 46 engaged with the first helical spline 38.
In this embodiment, the first ratchet member 26 comprises a
plurality of first ratchet teeth 44. The first ratchet teeth 44 are
arranged in the circumferential direction D3. The second helical
spline 46 includes second spline teeth 48 and second spline grooves
50 defined between adjacent two teeth of the second spline teeth
48. The second spline teeth 48 are respectively provided in the
first spline grooves 42. The first spline teeth 40 are respectively
provided in the second spline grooves 50.
In this embodiment, the first ratchet member 26 includes a first
ratchet body 52. The first ratchet body 52 has an annular shape.
The first ratchet teeth 44 are provided on an axial side of the
first ratchet body 52. The first ratchet teeth 44 radially extend
relative to the rotational axis A1. The first ratchet teeth 44
provide a serration on the axial side of the first ratchet body 52.
The second helical spline 46 is provided on an inner periphery of
the first ratchet body 52. The second spline teeth 48 are provided
on the inner periphery of the first ratchet body 52.
As seen in FIG. 6, the sprocket support body 16 includes guiding
portions 54. Only one of the guiding portions 54 is illustrated in
FIG. 6. The guiding portions 54 are configured to guide the first
ratchet member 26 toward the hub shell 14 during coasting or
freewheeling. The guiding portions 54 are configured to move the
first ratchet member 26 away from the second ratchet member 28 in
the axial direction D1. The guiding portion 54 extends from one of
the first ratchet teeth 44 in at least the circumferential
direction D3. While the guiding portion 54 is integrally provided
with the first spline teeth 40 as a one-piece unitary member in
this embodiment, the guiding portion 54 can be a separate member
from the first spline teeth 40.
The second ratchet member 28 comprises at least one second ratchet
tooth 56. The at least one second ratchet tooth 56 is engageable
with the at least one first ratchet tooth 44. In this embodiment,
the second ratchet member 28 comprises a plurality of second
ratchet teeth 56. The second ratchet teeth 56 are arranged in the
circumferential direction D3. The second ratchet teeth 56 are
engageable with the first ratchet teeth 44. The first ratchet
member 26 and the second ratchet member 28 rotate together in a
state where the second ratchet teeth 56 are engaged with the first
ratchet teeth 44.
In this embodiment, the second ratchet member 28 includes a second
ratchet body 58. The second ratchet body 58 has an annular shape.
The second ratchet member 28 includes an outer peripheral surface
59. In this embodiment, the second ratchet body 58 includes the
outer peripheral surface 59. The at least one second tooth 36 is
provided on the outer peripheral surface 59 of the second ratchet
member 28. In this embodiment, the second teeth 36 are provided on
the outer peripheral surface 59 of the second ratchet member
28.
The second ratchet teeth 56 are provided on an axial side of the
second ratchet body 58. The second ratchet teeth 56 radially extend
relative to the rotational axis A1. The second ratchet teeth 56
provide a serration on the axial side of the second ratchet body
58. The second teeth 36 extend radially outwardly from the second
ratchet body 58.
As seen in FIG. 3, the bicycle hub assembly 10 comprises a biasing
member 60. The biasing member 60 is provided between the hub shell
14 and the first ratchet member 26 in the axial direction D1
parallel to the rotational axis A1 to bias the first ratchet member
26 toward the second ratchet member 28. In this embodiment, for
example, the biasing member 60 is a compression spring.
As seen in FIG. 7, the biasing member 60 is compressed between the
hub shell 14 and the first ratchet member 26 in the axial direction
D1. The biasing member 60 biases the first ratchet member 26 toward
the second ratchet member 28 to maintain an engagement state where
the first ratchet member 26 and the second ratchet member 28 are
engaged with each other via the first ratchet teeth 44 and the
second ratchet teeth 56.
Preferably, the biasing member 60 is mounted to the hub shell 14 to
rotate together with the hub shell 14 about the rotational axis A1
(FIG. 3). The biasing member 60 includes a coiled body 60a and a
connecting end 60b. The hub shell 14 includes a connecting hole
14a. The connecting end 60b is provided in the connecting hole 14a
so that the biasing member 60 rotates together with the hub shell
14 about the rotational axis A1.
As seen in FIG. 3, the bicycle hub assembly 10 comprises a spacer
62, a supporting member 64, a sliding member 66, an additional
biasing member 68, and a receiving member 70. However, it is
possible to omit at most four of the spacer 62, the supporting
member 64, the sliding member 66, the additional biasing member 68,
and the receiving member 70 from the bicycle hub assembly 10.
As seen in FIGS. 7 and 8, the spacer 62 is at least partly provided
between the at least one first tooth 34 and the at least one second
tooth 36 in the circumferential direction D3 defined about the
rotational axis A1. In this embodiment, the spacer 62 is partly
provided between the first teeth 34 and the second teeth 36 in the
circumferential direction D3. However, the spacer 62 can be
entirely provided between the first teeth 34 and the second teeth
36 in the circumferential direction D3.
As seen in FIGS. 8 to 10, the spacer 62 includes at least one
intermediate portion 72 provided between the at least one first
tooth 34 and the at least one second tooth 36. The at least one
intermediate portion 72 provided between the at least one first
tooth 34 and the at least one second tooth 36 in the
circumferential direction D3. In this embodiment, the spacer 62
includes a plurality of intermediate portions 72 respectively
provided between the first teeth 34 and the second teeth 36 in the
circumferential direction D3. While the spacer 62 includes the
intermediate portions 72 in this embodiment, the spacer 62 can
include one intermediate portion 72.
As seen in FIG. 11, the first tooth 34 includes a first surface 34a
and a second tooth 34b. The first surface 34a faces in the driving
rotational direction D21. The second surface 34b faces in the
opposite rotational direction D22. The second tooth 36 includes a
third surface 36a and a fourth surface 36b. The third surface 36a
faces in the driving rotational direction D21. The fourth surface
36b faces in the opposite rotational direction D22. The
intermediate portion 72 is provided between the second surface 34b
and the third surface 36a in the circumferential direction D3.
However, the intermediate portion 72 can be provided between the
first surface 34a and the fourth surface 36b in the circumferential
direction D3.
As seen in FIGS. 9 and 10, the spacer 62 includes an annular
portion 74. The at least one intermediate portion 72 extends from
the annular portion 74 in the axial direction D1 parallel to the
rotational axis A1. The intermediate portions 72 extend from the
annular portion 74 in the axial direction D1. While the spacer 62
includes the annular portion 74 in this embodiment, the annular
portion 74 can be omitted from the spacer 62.
The spacer 62 including a non-metallic material. In this
embodiment, the non-metallic material includes a resin material.
Examples of the resin material include synthetic resin. The
non-metallic material can include a material other than the resin
material instead of or in addition to the resin material. While the
intermediate portions 72 and the annular portion 74 are integrally
provided with each other as a one-piece unitary member in this
embodiment, at least one of the intermediate portions 72 can be a
separate portion from the annular portion 74.
As seen in FIGS. 7 and 8, the outer peripheral surface 59 faces the
inner peripheral surface 33 of the hub shell 14 in a radial
direction perpendicular to the rotational axis A1 (FIG. 8). The at
least one intermediate portion 72 is provided between the inner
peripheral surface 33 of the hub shell 14 and the outer peripheral
surface 59 of the second ratchet member 28 in the radial direction.
In this embodiment, the intermediate portions 72 are provided
between the inner peripheral surface 33 of the hub shell 14 and the
outer peripheral surface 59 of the second ratchet member 28 in the
radial direction.
As seen in FIG. 7, the supporting member 64 is provided between the
hub shell 14 and the spacer 62 in the axial direction D1 parallel
to the rotational axis A1. The supporting member 64 is provided
between the hub shell 14 and the second ratchet member 28 in the
axial direction D1. The hub shell 14 includes a hub axial surface
76 facing in the axial direction D1. The supporting member 64 is
provided between the hub axial surface 76 and the second ratchet
member 28 in the axial direction D1.
As seen in FIGS. 12 and 13, the supporting member 64 includes an
annular base 78 and an axially supporting portion 80. The axially
supporting portion 80 extends radially outwardly from the annular
base 78. As seen in FIG. 7, the annular base 78 is attached to the
second ratchet member 28. The axially supporting portion 80 faces
the at least one inter mediate portion 72 in the axial direction
D1. In this embodiment, as seen in FIGS. 12 and 13, the axially
supporting portion 80 includes protruding parts 82. The protruding
parts 82 are arranged in the circumferential direction D3 and
extend radially outwardly from the annular base 78. As seen in FIG.
7, the protruding parts 82 respectively face the intermediate
portions 72 in the axial direction D1. While the axially supporting
portion 80 includes the protruding parts 82 in this embodiment, the
axially supporting portion 80 can have other shapes such as an
annular shape. While the axially supporting portion 80 includes the
protruding parts 82 in this embodiment, the axially supporting
portion 80 can include one protruding part 82.
As seen in FIGS. 12 and 13, the supporting member 64 includes a
radially supporting portion 84. The radially supporting portion 84
extends from the annular base 78 in the axial direction D1. As seen
in FIG. 7, the radially supporting portion 84 is provided radially
inwardly of the additional biasing member 68. While the radially
supporting portion 84 has an annular shape in this embodiment, the
shape of the radially supporting portion 84 is not limited to this
embodiment.
As seen in FIGS. 12 and 13, the supporting member 64 includes an
attachment portion 85. The attachment portion 85 is provided on an
opposite side of the radially supporting portion 84 relative to the
annular base 78. The attachment portion 85 has a substantially
annular shape and extends from the annular base 78 in the axial
direction D1.
As seen in FIG. 7, the second ratchet member 28 includes an
attachment groove 28a having an annular shape. The attachment
portion 85 is engaged with the attachment groove 28a. The
supporting member 64 is secured to the second ratchet member 28 by
the attachment portion 85 and the attachment groove 28a.
The supporting member 64 includes a non-metallic material. In this
embodiment, the non-metallic material includes a resin material.
The non-metallic material can include a material other than the
resin material instead of or in addition to the resin material. The
annular base 78, the axially supporting portion 80, the radially
supporting portion 84, and the attachment portion 85 are integrally
provided with each other as a one-piece unitary member. However, at
least one of the axially supporting portion 80, the radially
supporting portion 84, and the attachment portion 85 can be a
separate portion from the annular base 78.
As seen in FIG. 7, the sliding member 66 is provided between the
sprocket support body 16 and the second ratchet member 28 in the
axial direction D1 parallel to the rotational axis A1. The sprocket
support body 16 includes a first axial surface 86 facing in the
axial direction D1. The second ratchet member 28 includes a second
axial surface 88 facing in the axial direction D1. The sliding
member 66 is provided between the first axial surface 86 and the
second axial surface 88 in the axial direction D1. The second
ratchet member 28 is provided between the first ratchet member 26
and the sliding member 66 in the axial direction D1.
In this embodiment, as seen in FIG. 14, the sliding member 66 has
an annular shape. However, the shape of the sliding member 66 is
not limited to the annular shape. The sliding member 66 includes a
non-metallic material. In this embodiment, the non-metallic
material includes a resin material. The non-metallic material can
include a material other than the resin material instead of or in
addition to the resin material.
As seen in FIG. 7, the additional biasing member 68 is provided
between the hub shell 14 and the second ratchet member 28 in the
axial direction D1 to bias the second ratchet member 28 toward the
second ratchet member 28. The additional biasing member 68 is
provided radially outwardly of the biasing member 60. The
additional biasing member 68 is provided radially outwardly of the
at least one second ratchet tooth 56. In this embodiment, the
additional biasing member 68 is provided radially outwardly of the
second ratchet teeth 56.
As seen in FIGS. 6 and 7, the second ratchet member 28 includes a
cylindrical element 90 extending in the axial direction D1. The at
least one second tooth 36 extends radially outwardly from the
cylindrical element 90. In this embodiment, the second ratchet body
58 includes the cylindrical element 90. The second teeth 36 extend
radially outwardly from the cylindrical element 90.
As seen in FIG. 7, the additional biasing member 68 is provided
between the hub shell 14 and the cylindrical element 90 in the
axial direction D1. The supporting member 64 is provided between
the second ratchet member 28 and the additional biasing member 68
in the axial direction D1. The annular base 78 is provided between
the second ratchet member 28 and the additional biasing member 68
in the axial direction D1. The additional biasing member 68 is
provided radially outwardly of the radially supporting portion
84.
The receiving member 70 is provided between the first ratchet
member 26 and the biasing member 60 in the axial direction D1. The
first ratchet member 26 includes a first receiving surface 92
facing in the axial direction D1. The receiving member 70 is
provided between the first receiving surface 92 and the biasing
member 60 in the axial direction D1.
As seen in FIGS. 6 and 7, the first ratchet member 26 includes a
cylindrical part 94 extending from the first receiving surface 92
in the axial direction D1. The receiving member 70 is provided
radially outwardly of the cylindrical part 94.
As seen in FIGS. 15 and 16, the receiving member 70 includes an
axially receiving part 96 and a radially receiving part 98. In this
embodiment, each of the axially receiving part 96 and the radially
receiving part 98 has an annular shape. As seen in FIG. 7, the
axially receiving part 96 is provided between the first receiving
surface 92 and the biasing member 60 in the axial direction D1. The
radially receiving part 98 extends from the axially receiving part
96 in the axial direction D1. The radially receiving part 98 is
provided between the cylindrical part 94 and the biasing member 60
in the radial direction perpendicular to the rotational axis
A1.
The receiving member 70 includes a non-metallic material. In this
embodiment, the non-metallic material includes a resin material.
The non-metallic material can include a material other than the
resin material instead of or in addition to the resin material. The
axially receiving part 96 and the radially receiving part 98 are
integrally provided with each other as a one-piece unitary member.
However, the axially receiving part 96 can be a separate member
from the radially receiving part 98.
The action of the bicycle hub assembly 10 will be described in
detail below referring to FIGS. 7, 17, and 18.
As seen in FIG. 7, the axial direction D1 includes a first axial
direction D11 and a second axial direction D12 opposite to the
first axial direction D11. A biasing force F1 is applied from the
biasing member 60 to the receiving member 70 in the first axial
direction D11. The biasing force F1 of the biasing member 60 biases
the receiving member 70, the first ratchet member 26, the second
ratchet member 28, and the sliding member 66 toward the sprocket
support body 16 in the first axial direction D11. This brings the
first ratchet teeth 44 into engagement with the second ratchet
teeth 56.
Furthermore, as seen in FIG. 17, when a pedaling torque T1 is input
to the sprocket support body 16 in the driving rotational direction
D21, the second spline teeth 48 are guided by the first spline
teeth 40 relative to the sprocket support body 16 in the first
axial direction D11. This strongly brings the first ratchet teeth
44 into engagement with the second ratchet teeth 56. In this state,
the pedaling torque T1 is transmitted from the sprocket support
body 16 to the hub shell 14 (FIG. 7) via the first ratchet member
26 and the second ratchet member 28 (FIG. 7).
As seen in FIG. 18, a coasting torque T2 is applied to the hub
shell 14 in the driving rotational direction D21 during coasting.
The coasting torque T2 is transmitted from the hub shell 14 (FIG.
7) to the first ratchet member 26 via the second ratchet member 28
(FIG. 7). At this time, the second spline teeth 48 are guided by
the first spline teeth 40 relative to the support sprocket body 16
in the second axial direction D12. This moves the first ratchet
member 26 relative to the sprocket support body 16 in the second
axial direction D12 against the biasing force F1. Thus, the first
ratchet member 26 is moved away from the second ratchet member 28
in the second axial direction D12, causing the engagement between
the first ratchet teeth 44 and the second ratchet teeth 56 to be
weaker. This allows the second ratchet member 28 to rotate relative
to the first ratchet member 26 in the driving rotational direction
D21, preventing the coasting torque T2 from being transmitted from
the hub shell 14 to the sprocket support body 16 via the first
ratchet member 26 and the second ratchet member 28. At this time,
the first ratchet teeth 44 slide with the second ratchet teeth 56
in the circumferential direction D3.
The bicycle hub assembly 10 has the following features.
(1) The spacer 62 is at least partly provided between the at least
one first tooth 34 and the at least one second tooth 36 in a
circumferential direction D3 defined about the rotational axis A1.
The spacer 62 includes the non-metallic material. Accordingly, it
is possible to reduce or prevent friction sound caused by direct
contact between the at least one first tooth 34 and the at least
one second tooth 36.
(2) The at least one intermediate portion 72 is provided between
the at least one first tooth 34 and the at least one second tooth
36. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively reduce or prevent
the friction sound caused by direct contact between the at least
one first tooth 34 and the at least one second tooth 36.
(3) The at least one intermediate portion 72 extends from the
annular portion 74 in the axial direction D1 parallel to the
rotational axis A1. Accordingly, it is possible to easily detach or
attach the at least one intermediate portion 72 from or to the at
least one first tooth 34 and the at least one second tooth 36.
(4) Since the non-metallic material includes a resin material, it
is possible to effectively reduce or prevent the friction sound
caused by direct contact between the at least one first tooth 34
and the at least one second tooth 36 with suppressing an increase
in weight of the bicycle hub assembly 10.
(5) The at least one first tooth 34 is provided on the inner
peripheral surface 33. The at least one second tooth 36 is provided
on the outer peripheral surface 59 of the second ratchet member 28.
Accordingly, it is possible to make the bicycle hub assembly 10
compact.
(6) The at least one intermediate portion 72 is provided between
the inner peripheral surface 33 of the hub shell 14 and the outer
peripheral surface 59 of the second ratchet member 28 in the radial
direction. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively reduce or
prevent the friction sound caused by direct contact between the at
least one first tooth 34 and the at least one second tooth 36 with
making the bicycle hub assembly 10 compact.
(7) The supporting member 64 is provided between the hub shell 14
and the spacer 62 in the axial direction D1 parallel to the
rotational axis A1. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the
spacer 62 from being removed from the hub shell 14 even when the
spacer 62 is broken.
(8) The supporting member 64 is provided between the hub shell 14
and the second ratchet member 28 in the axial direction D1.
Accordingly, it is possible to effectively prevent the spacer 62
from being removed from the hub shell 14 even when the spacer 62 is
broken.
(9) The supporting member 64 is provided between the hub axial
surface 76 and the second ratchet member 28 in the axial direction
D1. Accordingly, it is possible effectively prevent the spacer 62
from being removed from the hub shell 14 even when the spacer 62 is
broken.
(10) The supporting member 64 includes the annular base 78 and the
supporting portion 80. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively
prevent the at least one intermediate portion 72 of the spacer 62
from being removed from the hub shell 14 even when the spacer 62 is
broken.
(11) Since the supporting member 64 includes a non-metallic
material, it is possible to prevent the spacer 62 from being
removed from the hub shell 14 even when the spacer 62 is broken
with suppressing an increase in weight of the bicycle hub assembly
10.
(12) The sliding member 66 is provided between the sprocket support
body 16 and the second ratchet member 28 in the axial direction D1
parallel to the rotational axis A1. The sliding member 66 includes
a non-metallic material. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce or
prevent friction sound caused by direct contact between the
sprocket support body 16 and the second ratchet member 28.
(13) The sliding member 66 is provided between the first axial
surface 86 and the second axial surface 88 in the axial direction
D1. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce or prevent friction sound
caused by direct contact between the first axial surface 86 and the
second axial surface 88.
(14) Since the sliding member 66 has an annular shape, it is
possible to effectively reduce or prevent friction sound caused by
direct contact between the sprocket support body 16 and the second
ratchet member 28 with securing strength of the sliding member
66.
(15) The second ratchet member 28 is provided between the first
ratchet member 26 and the sliding member 66 in the axial direction
D1. Accordingly, the sliding member 66 can receive an axial force
applied from the first ratchet member 26 to the second ratchet
member 28 in the axial direction D1.
(16) Since the sliding member 66 includes a non-metallic material,
it is possible to reduce or prevent friction sound caused by direct
contact between the sprocket support body 16 and the second ratchet
member 28 with suppressing an increase in weight of the bicycle hub
assembly 10.
(17) The additional biasing member 68 is provided between the hub
shell 14 and the second ratchet member 28 in the axial direction D1
to bias the second ratchet member 28 toward the sprocket support
body 16. Accordingly, it is possible to stabilize an orientation of
the second ratchet member 28 relative to the hub shell 14 by the
additional biasing member 68. This can reduce or prevent friction
sound caused by direct contact between the hub shell 14 and the
second ratchet member 28.
(18) The additional biasing member 68 is provided radially
outwardly of the biasing member 60. Accordingly, it is possible to
effectively stabilize the orientation of the second ratchet member
28 relative to the hub shell 14 by the additional biasing member
68.
(19) The additional biasing member 68 is provided radially
outwardly of the at least one second ratchet tooth 56. Accordingly,
it is possible to utilize a space provided radially outwardly of
the at least one sound ratchet tooth as a space in which the
additional biasing member 68.
(20) The additional biasing member 68 is provided between the hub
shell 14 and the cylindrical element 90 in the axial direction D1.
Accordingly, it is possible to effectively stabilize the
orientation of the second ratchet member 28 relative to the hub
shell 14 by the additional biasing member 68.
(21) The supporting member 64 is provided between the second
ratchet member 28 and the additional biasing member 68 in the axial
direction D1. Accordingly, it is possible to stabilize an
orientation of the additional biasing member 68 relative to the hub
shell 14 by the supporting member 64.
(22) The supporting member 64 includes the annular base 78 and the
radially supporting portion 84. Accordingly, it is possible to
further stabilize an orientation of the additional biasing member
68 relative to the hub shell 14 by the supporting member 64.
(23) Since the supporting member 64 includes a non-metallic
material, it is possible to effectively stabilize the orientation
of the additional biasing member 68 relative to the hub shell 14 by
the supporting member 64 with suppressing an increase in weight of
the bicycle hub assembly 10.
(24) The receiving member 70 is provided between the first ratchet
member 26 and the biasing member 60 in the axial direction D1.
Accordingly, it is possible to stabilize an orientation of the
biasing member 60 relative to the hub shell 14 by the receiving
member 70. This can stabilize a motion of the first ratchet member
26, preventing uneven wear of at least one of the first ratchet
member 26 and the second ratchet member 28.
(25) Since the receiving member 70 is provided between the first
receiving surface 92 and the biasing member 60 in the axial
direction D1, it is possible to stabilize an orientation of the
receiving member 70 relative to the first ratchet member 26. This
can stabilize the orientation of the biasing member 60 relative to
the hub shell 14. Accordingly, it is possible to effectively
prevent uneven wear of at least one of the first ratchet member 26
and the second ratchet member 28.
(26) Since the receiving member 70 is provided radially outwardly
of the cylindrical part 94, it is possible to further stabilize the
orientation of the receiving member 70 relative to the first
ratchet member 26. This can further stabilize the orientation of
the biasing member 60 relative to the hub shell 14. Accordingly, it
is possible to effectively prevent uneven wear of at least one of
the first ratchet member 26 and the second ratchet member 28.
(27) Since the radially receiving part 98 is provided between the
cylindrical part 94 and the biasing member 60 in the radial
direction perpendicular to the rotational axis A1, it is possible
to further stabilize the orientation of the biasing member 60
relative to the hub shell 14. Accordingly, it is possible to more
effectively prevent uneven wear of at least one of the first
ratchet member 26 and the second ratchet member 28.
(28) Since the receiving member 70 includes a non-metallic
material, it is possible to reduce or prevent wear of at least one
of the biasing member 60 and the first ratchet member 26 with
suppressing an increase in weight of the bicycle hub assembly
10.
The term "comprising" and its derivatives, as used herein, are
intended to be open ended terms that specify the presence of the
stated features, elements, components, groups, integers, and/or
steps, but do not exclude the presence of other unstated features,
elements, components, groups, integers and/or steps. This concept
also applies to words of similar meaning, for example, the terms
"have", "include" and their derivatives.
The terms "member", "section", "portion", "part", "element",
"body", and "structure" when used in the singular can have the dual
meaning of a single part or a plurality of parts.
The ordinal numbers such as "first" and "second" recited in the
present application are merely identifiers, but do not have any
other meanings, for example, a particular order and the like.
Moreover, for example, the term "first element" itself does not
imply an existence of "second element", and the term "second
element" itself does not imply an existence of "first element."
The term "pair of", as used herein, can encompass the configuration
in which the pair of elements have different shapes or structures
from each other in addition to the configuration in which the pair
of elements have the same shapes or structures as each other.
Finally, terms of degree such as "substantially", "about" and
"approximately" as used herein mean a reasonable amount of
deviation of the modified term such that the end result is not
significantly changed.
Obviously, numerous modifications and variations of the present
invention are possible in light of the above teachings. It is
therefore to be understood that within the scope of the appended
claims, the invention may be practiced otherwise than as
specifically described herein.
* * * * *